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I would love to buy a new Road King but after renting one, my lower back could not take more than an hour in the saddle. My knees don't want to be up so high, and my feet need to be further back. If I can't find a solution, then no Road King for me. What can I do? The old Pan Head and Knuckle Head saddles put the rider further forward and much higher, which would definitely help my back. I have been unable to find such seats that would fit a modern Road King. I don't know if a backrest would help.
Apes. I have 2 blown out discs, lower back. I find with my hands higher, my back is straighter, and I can ride way longer! And dont forget, seats and foot controls come in all styles & positions, that can be changed...
I find apes at shouler height, and a seat to put me in the straight up position, also HD makes a adjustable backrest seat, pretty damn comfy, but I prefer a corbin with backrest. Backrest and apes and the only pain I get is from sun/windburn.
get the King of the road, with a few mods you'll be more comfy on it then in a Lincoln Zepher
Maybe the HD Reduced Reach seat? The dealership here rents seats that can be tried out for a day. Check with your local dealer. Also, a backrest will help. I'm able to ride only very short distances without one.
Did that rental have a stock OEM seat? If so, you'll find that to be the first thing to go. I switched out to a Mustang and it was a world of difference. And like others have said, get a back rest. I still want to replace the stock handlebars, but still undecided on which ones.
Sundowner seat, Adjustable rider backrest and apes. I too have a bad lower back, and these 3 things helped my lower back immensely. The backrest keeps you from slouching and gives your lower back the support it needs.
I was in the same position as you and I bought a Mustang seat and Harley Adjustable back rest, and I'm waiting on some Flanders pull back bars. Those three items will put you in the comfort zone. I had the chubby 517's and the HD adjustable backrest on my 06 Road Glide and was able to continue to enjoy riding despite a bad back.
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